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THE SHARPEST POINT OF THE TRIAD
The Sharpest Point of the Triad is an engaging narrative of two superpowers using their nuclear submarines to vie for global supremacy. Political maneuvering, espionage, betrayal and intrigue are driving the Cold War and international tension to a dangerous breaking point. America’s nuclear submarines demonstrate their superiority forcing the Soviet Union to the negotiating table signaling the end of the Cold War.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 6, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
October 15, 2025
As my readers are aware, I am a former submariner. A friend recommended a submarine novel titled The Sharpest Point of the Triad by D. W. Hardin and Orval Sweeney, and it piqued my interest. Here are my thoughts about the book.
Synopsis (from the author):
The Sharpest Point of the Triad is an engaging narrative of two superpowers using their nuclear submarines to vie for global supremacy. Political maneuvering, espionage, betrayal, and intrigue are driving the Cold War and international tension to a dangerous breaking point. America’s nuclear submarines demonstrate their superiority, forcing the Soviet Union to the negotiating table, signaling the end of the Cold War.
What I liked about The Sharpest Point of the Triad:
First, I appreciated the book's realism and its well-written nature. Having ridden a submarine during the Cold War years, the book brought back some decades-old memories (most of them good, a few not so much).
Secondly, the characters and scenarios were both frightening and plausible, and I could feel the tension generated by the situations.
Lastly, in the interest of full disclosure, Orval Sweeney was my first CO aboard USS Sand Lance (SSN 660). He also pinned my dolphins on me, and he was my final qualification interview for reactor operator. Reading the book offered interesting insights into the mind of a fast-attack submarine captain.
What I didn’t like about The Sharpest Point of the Triad:
There really wasn’t much to dislike about the novel. Perhaps some parts were overly dramatic, but that didn’t detract from the book's overall impact.
Overall impression of The Sharpest Point of the Triad:
The Sharpest Point of the Triad was a great page-turner. Well-written, realistic, and filled with Cold War tension, D. W. Hardin and Orval Sweeney crafted an excellent story. I’m usually skeptical of submarine novels, but this one was a pleasant surprise. If you enjoy military novels or submarine stories, read this one. Bravo Zulu, gentlemen!
My rating:
5 Stars
Synopsis (from the author):
The Sharpest Point of the Triad is an engaging narrative of two superpowers using their nuclear submarines to vie for global supremacy. Political maneuvering, espionage, betrayal, and intrigue are driving the Cold War and international tension to a dangerous breaking point. America’s nuclear submarines demonstrate their superiority, forcing the Soviet Union to the negotiating table, signaling the end of the Cold War.
What I liked about The Sharpest Point of the Triad:
First, I appreciated the book's realism and its well-written nature. Having ridden a submarine during the Cold War years, the book brought back some decades-old memories (most of them good, a few not so much).
Secondly, the characters and scenarios were both frightening and plausible, and I could feel the tension generated by the situations.
Lastly, in the interest of full disclosure, Orval Sweeney was my first CO aboard USS Sand Lance (SSN 660). He also pinned my dolphins on me, and he was my final qualification interview for reactor operator. Reading the book offered interesting insights into the mind of a fast-attack submarine captain.
What I didn’t like about The Sharpest Point of the Triad:
There really wasn’t much to dislike about the novel. Perhaps some parts were overly dramatic, but that didn’t detract from the book's overall impact.
Overall impression of The Sharpest Point of the Triad:
The Sharpest Point of the Triad was a great page-turner. Well-written, realistic, and filled with Cold War tension, D. W. Hardin and Orval Sweeney crafted an excellent story. I’m usually skeptical of submarine novels, but this one was a pleasant surprise. If you enjoy military novels or submarine stories, read this one. Bravo Zulu, gentlemen!
My rating:
5 Stars
July 29, 2024
Adventure, intrigue and detail
This is a great book especially if you like adventure and intrigue with amazing detail. Mr. Hardin outdid himself with the help of Orval Sweeney. Everyone will enjoy this book but those who have been in the Silent Service (you know who you are) will get special kick out of it. Keep writing fellows you are doing a great job.
This is a great book especially if you like adventure and intrigue with amazing detail. Mr. Hardin outdid himself with the help of Orval Sweeney. Everyone will enjoy this book but those who have been in the Silent Service (you know who you are) will get special kick out of it. Keep writing fellows you are doing a great job.
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